Donald K. Keiser passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind cherished memories, kindness and generosity.

 Born in Nebraska on April 26, 1934, to Edwin and Thelma Alice Keiser, Don grew up during the Great Depression, where he developed the work ethic, character, and determination that would define his life. As a student at Millard High School, he became one of Nebraska's outstanding athletes, earning All-State honors in basketball while helping lead Millard High School to the Nebraska Class D State Basketball Championship. This historic 1951 Millard squad was officially inducted into the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame as a Golden Anniversary Team in 2000. He also helped lead Millard's American Legion baseball team to a Nebraska State Championship.

 After graduating from the University of Nebraska, Don began his professional career as a high school teacher and coach, where he enjoyed mentoring young people both in the classroom and on the athletic field. His love for education eventually led him to University Publishing Company, where his leadership, integrity, and work ethic enabled him to rise through the organization to become President. In that role, he relocated his family to Kansas City, Missouri, to establish the company's Missouri operations, a decision that shaped the future of the Keiser family for generations. Following the sale of University Publishing Company, Don joined School Specialty Company as a sales representative, where he became a trusted advisor to educators throughout the region. Whether as a teacher, coach, executive, or sales professional, Don earned the respect of everyone he met through his honesty, professionalism, and genuine concern for others.

 Don shared nearly fifty wonderful years of marriage with his beloved first wife, Mary Elizabeth Keiser, with whom he raised five children. Throughout their years together, he and his beloved wife were blessed with a circle of lifelong friends who became an extension of their family. Whether gathered around the card table, sharing dinners filled with laughter, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these friendships brought them immeasurable joy. The memories they created together and the bonds they nurtured over the years remained a cherished part of his life long after the loss of his wife. Following Mary's passing in 2005, he was blessed to find love again and later married Donna Rae Keiser, whose companionship brought happiness and friendship to the later years of his life.

 Sports were always part of daily life in Don's home, with a game almost always on the television. He enjoyed watching just about any sport, but above all, he was a loyal Nebraska Cornhuskers fan whose Saturdays in the fall were planned around kickoff. Beyond being a spectator, Don loved spending time on the golf course with family and friends, where the fellowship was just as important as the score. And when Saturday evening arrived, he could often be found at the American Legion, enjoying an evening of dancing.

More than any professional or athletic accomplishment, Don's greatest joy was his family. He rarely missed a game, recital, graduation, or family gathering and delighted in encouraging his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His quiet example of hard work, humility, perseverance, kindness, and unconditional love became the foundation upon which his family continues to build.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Elizabeth Keiser; his wife, Donna Rae Keiser; and his cherished daughter, Sara Lynn Keiser, as well as his Sisters Beverly Bull and Jaris Nelson and a brother Robert who passed in infancy.

 He is survived by his four children: Brad Keiser; Leigh Keiser; Jeff Keiser (Amy); and Jodi Smith (Tim). He was a proud grandfather to Jamie Leigh (Dustin), Austin, Edwin (Jacelyn), Jared, and Kelli, he was blessed with seven great-grandchildren and his best pal Bruno.

 Don's greatest legacy is not found in the championships he won or the titles he held, but in the family he loved, the lives he influenced, and the values he demonstrated every day. His example will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions in Don’s honor to his 2 favorite charities, St. Judes Hospital and Covenant House Missouri.